Texas Senate Committees Receive New Directives

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has issued additional interim charges for Texas Senate committees in preparation for the 2027 legislative session. These charges outline areas of focus for investigation and potential legislation. The new directives build upon five priorities announced in January, which included preventing Sharia Law, increasing property tax cuts, investigating Medicaid fraud, and promoting “America and Texas first” agendas in schools.

Data Center Growth Under Scrutiny

Data center development and its effects on the state are a key area of concern. Three committees have been tasked with examining various aspects of this growth. The goal is to understand and address the challenges and opportunities presented by the increasing demand for data storage and processing.

Water Resource Impact

The Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Committee will investigate the water demands of “energy-intensive technologies,” specifically data centers. Their focus will be on water consumption rates and preventing industrial growth from negatively impacting water costs for residents and farmers.

Infrastructure and Landowner Concerns

The Business and Commerce Committee will analyze infrastructure frameworks needed to support the large electrical loads required by data centers. They will also explore ways to balance data center expansion with the rights and interests of landowners.

Sales Tax Exemptions Evaluated

The Finance Committee will review the sales tax exemptions currently granted to data centers. The committee will assess whether these exemptions are effectively benefiting Texans and justifying the investment.

THC and Healthcare Costs

The Health and Human Services Committee will study the impact of THC products on healthcare costs, mental health emergency detentions, and the potential for THC-induced psychotic disorders. Patrick previously pushed for a ban on THC products, but a related bill was vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott last session.

Gambling and Election Integrity

Prediction market gambling is also under review. The State Affairs Committee will seek to close loopholes that have allowed companies like Kalshi and Polymarket to operate in Texas, despite the state’s general ban on gambling. The committee will focus on ensuring the integrity of Texas elections and sports.

Election Security and Access

The State Affairs Committee will also examine election security and efficiency. This includes studying ballot counting procedures, the use of politically-affiliated polling locations, and access for poll watchers.

Property Tax Relief Measures

Committees will also consider increasing the homestead exemption for property taxes and lowering the age requirement for the senior exemption from 65 to 55. These measures aim to provide further property tax relief to Texans.

The full list of Lt. Gov. Patrick’s priorities can be found here.